Hello. My employment in Virginia is defined as salaried non-exempt. I am enrolled in a certification course that is "required" for my position. My employer pays me for the time out of the office as well as for the cost of the course, the books and any other necessary school supplies. What they do not pay me for is the long hours I spend working on projects for this course. Since August of 2005 I have spent countless hours on weekends and evenings completing the required homework for the course. I have even taken vacation days to have the time to complete the work required. I'm curious about the legality of this situation. Should I be compensated for the personal time I've spent working on this "required" course? Also, in the event that I should be compensated, how would you suggest I broach this with my employer/HR manager? Any light you could shed would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

The course itself is required and the employer is paying for that time and expense. They do not need to pay you for the time you spend doing homework and otherwise preparing for the course.

I'm glad I asked before I pressed the issue. Your assistance has been greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

No problem. Just remember, your hard work will pay off in the end. :)

Absolutely, the education has been invaluable.